How to Adopt a Rescued Newfoundland Dog

Newfoundland dogs are an extra-large beed that can make great pets when adopted from a rescue shelter. (Newfoundland dog image by araraadt from Fotolia.com)

Many rescued dogs have been abandoned, beaten, mistreated and/or abused. Volunteers work to save these animals from bad homes, bring them back to health and find them loving, suitable homes. Adopting a rescued Newfoundland is a short process, but there are many necessities needed for this extra-large dog to ensure that it has the best "forever" home possible.

Skill level:

Easy

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Instructions

1

Visit the local Newfoundland rescue shelter. Shelters can be found online through Petfinder.com. Here you can choose specific breeds, male/female and age brackets for your search. Browse the selection of animals waiting to be adopted and spend time with the dog that piques your interest. Newfoundlands start out small but can grow to be more than 68 Kilogram.

2

Schedule regular visits with the shelter. Spend time getting to know the dog you would like to rescue. Many rescued dogs are temperamental from previous abuse and can be set off by little things. If you have children or other pets, bring them to the shelter to interact with the Newfoundland to ensure it is a happy fit.

3

Fill out a rescue application. Almost all shelters require a rescue application that includes employment verification, references and sometimes a home visit. It is important for shelters to find a home that has space for dogs this large to run as well as owners who can afford proper outdoor housing, vaccinations, food and toys. Some shelters will also make regular home visits to ensure the dog is happy and healthy.

4

Bring home the new dog. If approved, you will pay an adoption fee and be able to take your animal home. Introduce it to the house, its inhabitants and the areas where it is allowed to play and use the bathroom. Dogs are able to understand a set routine quickly if it is presented to them every day. Rescued Newfoundlands also need ample exercise because of their large size.

Tips and warnings

Consider a facial harness for walking a Newfoundland. Because they are so large, they are also very strong and could hurt the owner or be hard to control with a neck or body harness. The facial harness gives the owner more control.

Buy dog food in bulk from a farm store. Farm stores will offer discount pricing on large-breed dog food and sell it by the pallet. Newfoundlands average 20 cups of dog food each day; however, the amount varies based on the brand of dog food.

Be aware of your dog's prior lifestyle. Raising your hand above them, a broom and some children's toys may remind them of items that they were beaten with and cause them to attack. Consider animal training to correct the dog's temperament and behaviour.